Finding a Pool Builder

Once you've decided on building a swimming pool, the next step is to find a swimming pool builder. (That is, right after you tell your DIY husband or wife to please put the shovel down, thank you very much.) it's natural to be nervous, when it's time to pick a builder, but it's not that difficult if you take your time and tackle it step by step.

1) Check to see that any potential builder is certified by the National Spa and Pool Institute (NSPI), including CBP (certified building professional) and CSP (certified service professional) certifications. A pool is a major expense and project so don't trust it to the guy down the block who promises he'll do a great job.

2) Always shop around and get different bids. You can't be scared to talk to people, lots of people, and to insist on references. When you get them Insist on references and don't just sit on them, as you need to actually call the people given as references and visit their pool if possible. Yeah, I know, a major hassle and pain in your butt but hey, who said life was always easy?

3) Visit the builder showroom and annoy the crap out of the people there asking questions. Tell them you just bought a house with a pool and have no idea how to maintain it and what would they recommend. If the staff is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful, that's a good sign. If they're clueless or otherwise can't be bothered, that's a big warning sign. If they don't have time for a few easy questions, chances are they're not going to invest much effort in building you a quality pool.

4) Check with your local Better Business Bureau to make sure the company is in good standing.

5) If any warranties are offered, always get it in writing before ever signing a contract. Don't just take their word on it. Don't trust them when they say they'll add it to the contract when they get back to the office. If it's important to you, make sure it's in the contract before you sign.